Rajmani¹, Sunil Kumar, Bhanu Pratap Singh, Jagatpal, Shailendra Kumar Singh and Manoj Kumar
Abstract
Agricultural information plays a pivotal role in shaping farmersâ decision-making, technology adoption, risk management, and ecological sustainability. Over the last decade, Indian agriculture has witnessed a rapid transformation in information delivery systems, marked by the expansion of digital advisory services, pluralistic extension models, and increasing participation of private actors. However, farmersâ actual information-seeking behaviour and the perceived usefulness of different information sources remain uneven and context-specific. This systematic review synthesizes empirical evidence published between 2020 and 2025 on farmersâ information-seeking behaviour, utilization of agricultural information sources, and the implications of these patterns for ecological sustainability in India. Following a systematic review protocol, peer-reviewed studies were identified from Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and leading Indian agricultural journals. A total of selected studies meeting predefined inclusion criteria were analysed thematically. The review reveals a consistent dominance of interpersonal networks and private input dealers as primary information sources, owing to trust, accessibility, and immediacy. Institutional extension services such as Krishi Vigyan Kendras, agricultural universities, and Kisan Call Centres are moderately utilised, while ICT-based tools-particularly mobile phones-are increasingly used for time-sensitive information related to weather, pest outbreaks, markets, and government schemes. Across regions, farmersâ information-seeking behaviour is largely reactive, driven by immediate risks rather than preventive or sustainability-oriented needs. Information demand for soil health management, integrated pest management, and resource conserving practices remains comparatively low, raising concerns for long-term ecological sustainability. The review identifies critical gaps in extension outreach, digital inclusivity, and sustainability-focused advisories. It concludes that integrating trusted interpersonal networks with scientific institutional support and digital platforms is essential for promoting informed decision-making and ecologically sustainable agriculture in India.